Green diplomacy, defined as the integration of environmental concerns into international relations, has become a cornerstone of modern geopolitics, shaping policies and fostering cooperation among nations in the face of shared ecological challenges. Climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation have elevated the urgency of sustainable practices, requiring nations to not only address domestic concerns but also collaborate on a global scale to secure a sustainable future.

For Tajikistan, green diplomacy is more than just a policy approach—it is a necessity driven by the country’s unique geographical and environmental context. Endowed with abundant freshwater resources, including over 60% of Central Asia’s water reserves, and possessing significant hydropower potential, Tajikistan is uniquely positioned to act as a regional leader in advocating for sustainable resource management. These resources are not only critical for the nation’s development but also for the stability and prosperity of neighboring countries dependent on shared water systems.

In recent years, Tajikistan has intensified its participation in international environmental initiatives, aligning itself with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. From hosting high-profile international water summits to spearheading regional cooperation on transboundary water management, Tajikistan has demonstrated its commitment to fostering collaboration and ensuring that environmental concerns are integrated into regional and global agendas^[1].

This article explores Tajikistan’s proactive engagement in global environmental diplomacy, its contributions to key international frameworks, and its efforts to champion sustainable development initiatives in Central Asia. By examining the country’s strategies and achievements in green diplomacy, we shed light on the opportunities and challenges Tajikistan faces as it seeks to balance its developmental goals with the imperative of environmental stewardship.

Tajikistan’s proactive stance on climate action reflects a deep understanding of the critical role it plays as a steward of Central Asia’s water and energy resources. Its commitments under the Paris Agreement and the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) signify the nation’s dedication to achieving both climate mitigation and adaptation goals. With a geography that is both a blessing – offering abundant hydropower potential – and a challenge due to its vulnerability to climate impacts, Tajikistan is pursuing an ambitious agenda to lead by example in renewable energy and climate resilience.

Hydropower forms the backbone of Tajikistan’s energy strategy, accounting for over 90% of its electricity production. This clean energy source not only positions Tajikistan among the world’s leaders in low-carbon energy but also offers the potential for regional energy cooperation. Key projects highlight the country’s ambitious vision:

• The Rogun Dam. Currently under construction, this project is poised to become one of the tallest dams in the world. Beyond securing energy independence, the Rogun Dam will significantly enhance Tajikistan’s capacity to export clean energy to neighboring countries, fostering regional integration and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Rehabilitation of Existing Infrastructure. Tajikistan has embarked on upgrading its aging hydropower facilities to improve efficiency, ensure safety, and meet growing energy demands sustainably. This includes modernization projects supported by international financial institutions, which underscore the country’s commitment to leveraging hydropower for a greener future.

Tajikistan’s contributions extend beyond its borders through active participation in global climate diplomacy. By engaging in platforms such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Tajikistan has become a vocal advocate for climate resilience in mountainous and landlocked regions^[2]. Specific initiatives include:

• Water Diplomacy. Tajikistan has long emphasized the importance of sustainable water resource management. Its leadership in organizing international water conferences, such as the “Water for Sustainable Development” initiative, underscores its dedication to addressing the interlinked challenges of water security, climate change, and sustainable development.
• Partnerships for Climate Finance. Tajikistan collaborates with international partners, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), to secure funding for projects aimed at enhancing resilience, reducing emissions, and supporting sustainable development.

Acknowledging the urgent need to address climate vulnerabilities, Tajikistan has prioritized adaptation measures to safeguard its natural ecosystems and the livelihoods of its people. These efforts include:

• Glacial Preservation Initiatives. Tajikistan’s glaciers, which feed the major rivers of Central Asia, are rapidly retreating due to global warming. The government has called for increased international support to monitor, preserve, and adapt to the loss of these critical water sources.
• Reforestation and Land Restoration. To combat land degradation and support biodiversity, Tajikistan is implementing large-scale reforestation projects and promoting sustainable land use practices. These initiatives aim to enhance soil health, mitigate the impacts of drought, and increase carbon sequestration.
• Community-Based Climate Programs. Empowering local communities is central to Tajikistan’s adaptation strategy. Programs focusing on sustainable agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and efficient water use ensure that rural populations—often the most affected by climate change—can build resilience against future challenges.

Tajikistan’s vision extends beyond national goals to a regional and global scale. With its vast hydropower potential, the country aspires to become a renewable energy hub in Central Asia. Through projects like the Central Asia–South Asia Electricity Transmission and Trade Project (CASA-1000), Tajikistan aims to export surplus clean energy to countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and fostering economic interdependence.

By embracing renewable energy and climate adaptation as pillars of its development strategy, Tajikistan is setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in the region. Its efforts not only contribute to global climate goals but also enhance its geopolitical significance as a leader in green diplomacy and sustainable resource management. Tajikistan’s path forward serves as an inspiring example of how small nations with rich natural resources can influence the global narrative on climate action.

Tajikistan is home to an extraordinary range of ecosystems, from towering high-altitude glaciers to fertile valleys and arid lowlands. These landscapes not only define the country’s natural beauty but also serve as critical habitats for a diverse array of flora and fauna. Recognizing the global importance of its biodiversity, Tajikistan has prioritized ecosystem protection as a key pillar of its environmental strategy^[3].

Through partnerships with international organizations such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Tajikistan has undertaken significant initiatives to preserve its unique ecosystems and protect endangered species. These efforts include:

• Conserving Endangered Species. Tajikistan’s mountainous regions provide refuge for globally threatened species such as the snow leopard, a symbol of the country’s biodiversity. Conservation projects have focused on anti-poaching measures, habitat preservation, and community engagement programs that encourage coexistence between wildlife and human populations. Establishing protected areas and wildlife corridors has been critical in enabling the snow leopard and other species to thrive in the face of climate and anthropogenic pressures.
• Sustainable Land Management. To combat desertification and soil degradation in arid regions, Tajikistan has promoted sustainable land management practices. These include reforestation projects, crop diversification, and the introduction of erosion-control techniques. Such measures aim to restore degraded land, enhance agricultural productivity, and improve rural livelihoods while preserving ecosystems.
• Community Involvement in Biodiversity Protection. Recognizing the vital role of local communities, Tajikistan has implemented community-based conservation initiatives. By involving local populations in monitoring and protecting wildlife, the government ensures that conservation efforts are not only sustainable but also rooted in the socio-economic development of rural areas.
• Glacial Ecosystem Research and Preservation. As glaciers melt due to climate change, Tajikistan has ramped up research efforts to understand their ecological impact and protect the unique habitats they support. Collaboration with international experts has led to better management of glacial ecosystems, which are critical for regional water security and biodiversity.

[1] Emomali Rahmon Address at the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly. New York 24. 09.2024//UN Website (date of reference: 29.11.2024)

[2] Emomali Rahmon  Speech at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Date: September 19, 2023//https://www.un.org (date of reference: 30.11.2024)

[3] Национальная стратегия развития Таджикистана до 2030 года // https://medt.tj/ru/strategiy-i-programmi/hcp-2030 (date of reference: 27.11.2024)